The match started energetically, with Pandev making the first attempt. He hesitated before trying a volley after a rebound, but Szczesny caught the ball.
Arsenal responded quickly. Taking advantage of the opposing defense’s positioning, Olivier Giroud shot, but Cabral pushed it back!
The game intensified, with a more compact and dense midfield. It became choppy with multiple fouls, and Mathieu Flamaini’s commitment, leaving his post, reflected the Gunners’ determination.
Shortly after, Maggio appeared in front of Szcesny in a tight corner on the right, served by Mertens. Trying a lob, he sent the ball well over the goal!
With the score level between Marseille and Dortmund, both teams were not reassured. The first half ended with a 0-0 score.
